CAnyone who lives with diabetes knows it well: the disease can affect many aspects of health, including – and more than one might think – the mouth. Even with good daily hygiene, specific problems may appear that deserve attention. We talked about it with Dr. Massimiliano Readentist of Erresse Dental Medical Clinic in Ferrarato understand what really happens when diabetes and periodontitis meet.
Diabetes and periodontitis often walk together
«The two conditions are closely linked” explains Dr. Rea. «Uncontrolled diabetes damages the organism more vulnerable to infectionsand the mouth is no exception.”
There periodontitisonce called pyorrhea, is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. When blood sugar levels are high, the immune defenses slow down and the bacteria proliferate more easily. The result is a disease that can advance dramatically silent and continuous.
But there is also the opposite: untreated periodontitis can worsen glycemic controlcreating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.
The risk increases: what the studies say
The research is very clear: those who suffer from diabetes have a risk two to three times higher to develop periodontal disease compared to those who are not diabetic. And that’s not enough. Various studies show that periodontitis can contribute to increasing the values of glycated hemoglobinwith a direct impact on diabetes management. The good news is that treat periodontitis can help improve blood sugar stability.
How diabetes affects gum health
Poorly controlled diabetes: weakens the blood vessels, slow down healing and reduces the capacity of protect yourself from bacteria.
In the mouth this means more fragile and inflamed gums. Additionally, high sugar levels in saliva promote plaque growth, increasing the risk of infections.
Symptoms not to ignore
Here are the signs that deserve immediate attention, especially in diabetic patients:
bleeding during brushing
red or swollen gums
teeth that appear to move
persistent bad breath
receding gums
new spaces between the teeth
In the diabetic patient these symptoms can evolve more rapidly and should never be underestimated.
Because prevention is fundamental
“There early diagnosis it is essential” reiterates Dr. Rea. Periodontitis detected in its early stages can be controlled with minimal treatments. Neglecting it, however, can lead to tooth loss and worsening of diabetes.
Prevention goes through:
When dentist and diabetologist work together
Today it is clear that you cannot truly manage diabetes without also considering oral health. The collaboration between diabetologist and dentist allows you to evaluate how blood sugar affects the mouth, but also to plan periodontal treatments at times of greater metabolic balance. And also monitor any worsening.
A patient followed by both specialists has a better chance of maintaining a good glycemic balance and maintaining dental health.
The role of diet: what is good for blood sugar is also good for the gums
A balanced diet helps stabilize blood sugar and reduce gum inflammation. Foods rich in: fibers, antioxidants e lean proteins. However, simple sugars and sweet drinks should be limited, as they favor the rise in blood sugar and the formation of bacterial plaque.
Advanced oral hygiene: what can really help
In addition to the traditional toothbrush, the following may be useful:
electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors
pipe cleaners and dental floss
antiseptic mouthwashes on professional recommendation
sessions of more frequent hygiene
In the early stages of periodontal disease, the dentist can intervene directly on the gum pocketslimiting the progression of the infection.
Initial periodontitis: how to recognize it and how to treat it
The initial phase is often asymptomatic. This is why a regular dental visit is essential. The dentist can diagnose the disease through a gum survey, x-rays and targeted clinical evaluations. Treatment involves the removal of deep plaque and tartarcombined with personalized hygiene instructions and frequent checks. Intervening early almost always allows you to stop the disease before it becomes irreversible.
How often to carry out checks
«For a diabetic patient the ideal frequency is every three or four months” concludes Dr. Rea. This timing allows you to keep the plaque under control, identify any worsening and intervene immediately. If diabetes is well controlled and there are no signs of periodontitis, it can be expected semi-annual visits.